About the song
“Working Class Hero” is a song by John Lennon, released in 1970 on his first post-Beatles solo album, “John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band.” The song is known for its raw, acoustic style and its powerful, socially conscious lyrics.
The lyrics of “Working Class Hero” provide a stark and critical commentary on the class system and the societal pressures that shape individuals’ lives. Lennon addresses the struggles and disenfranchisement of the working class, highlighting the ways in which people are manipulated and oppressed from childhood to adulthood. The song’s refrain, “A working class hero is something to be,” serves as both a critique and a call to awareness, urging listeners to recognize and resist the systemic forces at play.
Musically, “Working Class Hero” is stripped down, featuring Lennon’s vocals accompanied by simple acoustic guitar strumming. This minimalistic approach emphasizes the song’s message and lends an intimate, confessional tone to the performance.
“Working Class Hero” stands out as one of John Lennon’s most poignant and politically charged songs, reflecting his deep concern with social justice and his ability to convey complex ideas through music. The song has resonated with generations of listeners and remains a powerful anthem for those fighting against inequality and oppression.
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Lyric
As soon as you’re born, they make you feel smallBy giving you no time instead of it all‘Til the pain is so big you feel nothing at allA working class hero is something to beA working class hero is something to beThey hurt you at home and they hit you at schoolThey hate you if you’re clever and they despise a fool‘Til you’re so fucking crazy you can’t follow their rulesA working class hero is something to beA working class hero is something to beWhen they’ve tortured and scared you for 20 odd yearsThen they expect you to pick a careerWhen you can’t really function, you’re so full of fearA working class hero is something to beA working class hero is something to beKeep you doped with religion and sex and TVAnd you think you’re so clever and classless and freeBut you’re still fucking peasants as far as I can seeA working class hero is something to beA working class hero is something to beThere’s room at the top they are telling you stillBut first you must learn how to smile as you killIf you want to be like the folks on the hillA working class hero is something to beA working class hero is something to beIf you want to be a hero, well, just follow meIf you want to be a hero, well, just follow me